Liverpool had reportedly been prepared to offer an additional fee on top of the premium they paid to activate Keita’s release clause early.

Leipzig were understandably adamant Keita would not be sold half way through a season in which a top four finish remains uncertain.

Outgoings proved to be the theme of the Reds’ window, with a number of U23s starlets leaving on loan in search of regular first team football.

Whilst Liverpool addressed a glaring weakness with the £75million acquisition of Virgil van Dijk, they have since come under criticism for failing to replace either one of Coutinho or Daniel Sturridge, who joined West Brom on a temporary deal.